Pacers hold off Bucks' late rally to take 2-0 series lead in NBA Playoffs
The Pacers turned up the heat in Game 2, outpacing the Bucks with explosive offense, relentless defense, and a cold-blooded finish setting the tone for a high-stakes showdown as the series shifts to Milwaukee.
The Indiana Pacers took a commanding 2–0 lead in their playoff series against the Milwaukee Bucks with a 125–108 win in Game 2. Led by Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, the Pacers dominated early and never trailed. Siakam had 37 points and 11 rebounds, while Haliburton added 12 points and 12 assists. Their energy and ball movement kept Milwaukee on the back foot for most of the game.
The Bucks struggled to find rhythm, missing the presence of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who remains out due to injury. Damian Lillard, returning to action, scored 34 points, but much of his production came in the second half when the game was already slipping away. The Bucks' defense was unable to contain the Pacers' speed and versatility on offense.
Pacers' bench depth and Three-Point Accuracy Extend Lead as Bucks Struggle to Keep Pace
Indiana’s sharp perimeter shooting and fast pace allowed them to extend their lead to double digits in the second quarter. Andrew Nembhard and Obi Toppin contributed key minutes off the bench, keeping the momentum firmly on the Pacers’ side. By halftime, they held a 16-point lead, and the Bucks looked visibly frustrated.
Despite a small push by Milwaukee in the third quarter, Indiana responded quickly with back-to-back three-pointers and aggressive drives to the basket. Myles Turner played a key role defensively, protecting the rim and limiting second-chance opportunities for the Bucks. The Pacers’ energy never wavered.
Pacers hold off late Bucks surge to take commanding series lead ahead of game 3 in Milwaukee
In the fourth quarter, Milwaukee tried to rally, cutting the lead to under 10 points, but the Pacers' composure and clutch shooting shut the door. Siakam hit a dagger three-pointer with under three minutes remaining to silence any comeback hopes. The Bucks couldn't keep up with Indiana’s offensive rhythm down the stretch.
With the series now heading to Milwaukee for Game 3, the pressure is on the Bucks to bounce back and protect home court. Meanwhile, the Pacers are riding high with confidence, having executed their game plan to near perfection. Indiana now holds the momentum in what is becoming one of the most exciting first-round matchups.